Script

Sally: Hi, I’m thinking of using a birth control method, what do you suggest?

Doctor: Well Sally, there are a range of different family planning methods available, and considering your age of 22 I’m assuming you would not want to choose a permanent method?

Sally: Yes. I am hoping to one day have children, just not right now.

Doctor: do you have any specific preferences?

Sally: I don’t want it to have any side effects, I would like it to last a few years at least and I don’t want it to have any long term effects on my body.

Doctor: Have you heard of IUD?

Sally: No I haven’t, what is it?

Doctor:  It stands for the intrauterine device, It is a small t-shaped device covered in copper that is inserted into the uterus. Copper is toxic to sperm, causing all sperm to die when it enters the uterus. It lasts five years but can be taken out whenever you wish and you are instantly fertile. When using the copper IUD, you will still get your period but it will probably be heavier and more painful. There is also a hormonal device which is easier to insert and it makes your period lighter and less painful, sometimes your period can be stopped all together. This IUD releases levonorgestrel into the cervix making the mucus in the cervix thicker so sperm cannot get into the uterus. It can also sometimes stop eggs from being released from the ovaries and it also changes the lining of the uterus which makes it unsuitable for a pregnancy.

Sally: Are there any risks to using either of the devices?

Doctor: There is a small risk of getting a pelvic infection. Only about one in 500 women contract it after the insertion of the hormonal or copper IUD which can result in decreased fertility.

Sally: I'm willing to take those risks. When can I make an appointment.

Doctor: I'll book you in on Friday.

Conversation with God

Dear diary,

I have been thinking about a variety of different contraceptive methods that my partner and I are should use to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. We have decided that I should  have an IUD. I know this family planning method is not accepted by the catholic perspective but I think it is the best method to use. The hormonal IUD is safer than most other contraceptives and doesn’t require constant attention. I think it is important for me to use a method that makes me feel protected against unwanted pregnancies rather than using a method that is other people feel comfortable with. I have a partner and we would like to turn our relationship into a sexual relationship but we also want to be as safe as possible and avoid unwanted pregnancies. There are only very small risks and almost no side effects of using an IUD. My family’s perspective is very important in my decision and they believe I should do what I feel most comfortable with which is definitely using an IUD. Their top priority is that I stay safe and this device will ensure that I don't become pregnant. My friends also believe I should do what I know is best suited to me and they will support me no matter what. Unfortunately IUD's don't protect me from STI's but most contraceptives don't either. The IUD is a very convenient method for me to use because it can be easily removed whenever I like and it lasts for 5 years. I feel really comfortable with this method and I am confident that it will prevent me from unwanted pregnancies. My partner and I know that this is an extremely important decision and we have both decided that this is the best option to suit our relationship. We hope that the Catholic perspective can support our decision.

Webspiration- Hannah

Hannah's IUD webspiration


Hannah's webspiration is a very clear and thorough representation of the information she collected. All questions are answered very well and they are quite detailed.

Webspiration Ella

Ella's Webspiration